British News Round-up: Reade’s move to America; Drake appointed to Sport England Board; RideLondon to remain in Surrey

Shanaze Reade to focus on ABA BMX Series in 2014

Four-time World BMX champion Shanaze Reade hopes that her move to America will help her in her quest to win Olympic gold at Rio 2016.

British Cycling announced that Reade will be taking time out of the Olympic Podium Programme to focus on the ABA BMX Series in America in 2014.

Speaking of her decision, Reade said: “Whilst I’m sad to temporarily move away from the GB Cycling Team, I’m also excited by the opportunity to race on the pro scene in America.

“I will be racing more frequently against world-class competition and I will be able to refine my technical skills in competitive race conditions.

“I’m looking forward to gaining more race experience out in America and using this in my campaign for Rio. British Cycling have given the decision their full backing as I continue to develop as an athlete and it is great to know I am able to return at any point in the future.”

BC head coach Shane Sutton said: “Shanaze has been a real asset to us over the years and she is an inspiration to youngsters which has always been great to see.”

British Cycling’s chief executive appointed to Sport England’s Board

Ian Drake has been appointed to sit on Sport England’s board, alongside six other new members, who are all appointed for a three-year term.

Drake is joined by former Olympian Sally Gunnell and chief executive of the Rugby World Cup 2015 Debbie Jevans, as well as Kate Bosomworth, David Goldstone, Charles Reed and Mark Spelman.

On his appointment, Drake said: “I am delighted to be joining Sport England’s Board. It is a privilege to help shape the future of grassroots sport in this country.

“The amazing success that cycling has enjoyed across all levels since 2008 have put me in a good position to be able to use that experience to help drive change across all sports.”

RideLondon has long-term economic benefits for Surrey

RideLondon organisers confirmed this week that the Prudential RideLondon 100 route will stay in Surrey as long as the council wants it to remain. Read more in this week’s Cycling Weekly

BMX Supercross World Cup returns to Manchester

Tickets for the first round of the 2014 UCI BMX Supercross World Cup went on sale yesterday (October 31).

The event will take place on April 18-19 and is the second time the city has hosted a World Cup event, following its popular introduction in 2013.

In a change to the adrenaline fuelled programme, Supercross moto and time trial qualification races will be held on Friday evening for Saturday’s main event.

Liam Phillips, who wears the World Champion’s rainbow stripes this season, will be racing in front of his home crowd alongside the fastest riders in the world.

Your chance to cycle for Sports Relief

For the first time ever, the Sport Relief Games is to include the Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Cycle, taking place in three locations across Britain.

Participants can cycle 25 or 50 miles in Glasgow, Manchester and at London’s Lee Valley VeloPark, or get the whole family involved in a 3 mile cycle.

Mark Cavendish and Sir Chris Hoy were among the sports personalities who helped to launch Sport Relief, which raises money to help some of the poorest and most disadvantaged people in the UK and around the world.